Scones and Sensibility

Scones and Sensibility by Lindsay Eland (December 22nd 2009—Egmont)

Grade: 3.5 stars out of 5

Summary: “Polly Madassa is convinced she was born for a more romantic time. A time when Elizabeth Bennet and Anne of Green Gables walked along the moors and beaches of the beautiful land, a time where a distinguished gentleman called upon a lady of quality and true love was born in the locked eyes of two young lovers.

But alas, she was not.

This, however, does not stop our young heroine from finding romance wherever she can conjure it up. So while Polly is burdened with a summer job of delivering baked goods from her parents bakery (how quaint!) to the people in her small beach town, she finds a way to force…um…encourage romance to blossom. She is determined to bring lovers, young and old, together…whether they want to be or not.”

Review: Scones and Sensibility when first revealed is a charming book with an equally charming main character. The novelty soon dies in the middle of the book where I suggest that the reader set the book down for a few hours.

Polly Madassa is someone who believes in true love but her idea of finding love comes from a novel. This is where things go downhill. Love cannot be dictated by an outside source just as Polly finds out at the end of the book when every blind date she’s prepared turns out disastrous. From kites running amok, to getting your best friend’s dad’s date handcuffed, to making your sister hate your guts, Polly risks it all to find the “perfect” match for her love ones—even at the cost of their own love interest. Her heart’s in the right place but she sometimes takes things just too far as Polly’s bosom friend lets her know.

Polly’s interference at love starts out charming even adorable but takes on an annoying tone later on. That was where the book lost some of its novelty. I thought the little slip ups with Polly’s speech from Jane Austen to modern day 12 year old gave the reader insight how Polly is just a regular girl. And Polly’s own little love trouble makes the book more squealish. I enjoy the terms of affection that she used, I mean “boson friend” how cute is that? (My friend uses the term butt buddy (which makes me think of bubble buddy from Spongebob Squarepants) so I like to squish the two terms together to make bosom buddy.) The antics of Polly were sweet but grew frustrating when Polly would not listen to sound advice. The ending, of course, was a bit to be expected with Polly finally deciding that love cannot be messed with but ending with at least one good match that Polly had made. It was a happy ending for all as everyone found some kindling of love even if Polly did not help set up.

Overall: Cute as a Danish. But sometimes too many Danishes can have its faults.

Cover B-

Hello?

Hi guys I just wanted to direct your attention to PAYA. As you may or may not have heard the the budget for Pennsylvania's librarians are being reduced--by a lot. The libraries in Philadelphia were at one point almost entirely closed--that's about 3 main libraries and 20+ smaller branches. Thousands of books unread, hundreds of librarian laid off.

About PAYA:

PAYA is a coalition of Pennsylvania’s young adult authors, bloggers, librarians, readers, and other book-lovers. Our mission is two-fold:

1. To share the love we have for young adult literature with others in our state
2. To raise money to support Pennsylvania’s libraries, with a focus on helping build Young Adult library collections and Young Adult services.

We are planning our first annual event to be held Philadelphia in the summer of 2010. There will be tons of authors and readers coming together. It’s going to be huge!

For this project to work and to help bring more books to libraries across the state we need funds. This is where this idea comes in. Right now there are auctions that include writing critiques from authors and 2 signed books by Janette Rallison for a stating price of $10. Ten freaking dollars for TWO HARDBACK books! So please just check those two sites out and spread the word!

The Splendor Falls

The Splendor Falls by Rosemary Clement-Moore (September 8th 2009—Delacorte)

Grade: 3.5 stars out of 5

Summary: “Can love last beyond the grave?

Sylvie Davis is a ballerina who can’t dance. A broken leg ended her career, but Sylvie’s pain runs deeper. What broke her heart was her father’s death, and what’s breaking her spirit is her mother’s remarriage—a union that’s only driven an even deeper wedge into their already tenuous relationship.

Uprooting her from her Manhattan apartment and shipping her to Alabama is her mother’s solution for Sylvie’s unhappiness. Her father’s cousin is restoring a family home in a town rich with her family’s history. And that’s where things start to get shady. As it turns out, her family has a lot more history than Sylvie ever knew. More unnerving, though, are the two guys that she can’t stop thinking about. Shawn Maddox, the resident golden boy, seems to be perfect in every way. But Rhys—a handsome, mysterious foreign guest of her cousin’s—has a hold on her that she doesn’t quite understand.

Then she starts seeing things. Sylvie’s lost nearly everything—is she starting to lose her mind as well?”

Review: If you’ve read Beautiful Creatures and enjoyed yourself then you may also want to pick up The Splendor Falls. They both delve into a mysterious background with a touch of romance and a heavy sprinkle of magic. I found the book interesting enough to try to finish it in one day—that didn’t happen because it’s huge. There were times when things started to slow that pow something ignited my attention and forced me to carry on. And then there were chapters where I just didn’t want it to end.

There’s a lot of background information that while served its purpose of filling gaps, found it enthralling. I loved how all the pieces came together at one point or another. I found the characters also equally good. While they were the one-dimensional characters Sylvie came alive. The Reverend and Clara popped out to me much more than I expected so while Shawn and Rhys I had hoped delivered more.

My biggest complaint would have to be the length. I love a good hardy book worth my money but when most of it is fluff that serves no substantial purpose it becomes dragging. I love Gigi’s (Sylvie’s dog) antics but sometimes I just want to say enough is enough, can we please get on with it. There were the really slow scenes then the super fast ones. The pacing was hard for me as the author set a nice speed in the beginning, dragged it in the middle, and did a marathon towards the end. More of this (magic, explanations, character appearances), less of that (dog walking, dog petting, dog snuggling). But I do have to point out that at times where I was reading scenes from the book I was thinking to myself why did the author include this when it comes back full circle later on in an ohhhhhhhh that’s smart and nicely done.

I also have a teensy weensy issue with the epilogue. It was just too happy happy for me. Like everything was too perfect with the bad guy working in a diner.

Overall: I definitely think fans of Beautiful Creature should try this book out. It isn’t completely same there are some similar characteristics.

Cover C+

*shrugs* I'm trying to figure out what the rose and blood symbolize.

Being Sick Sucks

Apparently my brain is not functioning correctly and I posted my review for BAD APPLE too early! argh. What is this? The 5th time that this has happened? Anyway the review will be back tomorrow *grumbles*

Lovestruck Summer

Lovestruck Summer by Melissa Walker (May 16th 2009—Harper Teen)

Grade: 3.5 stars out of 5

Summary:

“Austin music fest

Yay, summer in Austin!

Good food, good times. Fun for everyone!

Okay, living with my sorority-brainwashed cousin, who willingly goes by "Party Penny," is not exactly what I had in mind.

All your favorite bands

But the cute musicians I've met totally make up for it . . . like Sebastian. Swoon.

All ages welcome

So why can't I stop thinking about Penny's friend All-American Russ and his Texas twang??

Saturday & Sunday, from noon to midnight

Don't wait up!”

Review: Lovestruck Summer is a perfect spring/summer read. Readers will find this book to be a guilty pleasure because it’s a mind-numbing fun story with no real hardy plotline. That is not to say that’s bad, oh no. Let’s say you’ve just read like 5 books one after the other where the main character is a drug addict, a cutter, has a lot of emotional baggage, or just really, really depressing, that’s where this book comes it. It’s the sun amongst the clouds.

Quirky, humorous, whimsical, fun, sweet, sad, predictable though, and an overall blast to read. I felt like I was with Quinn through her highs and lows, sweet nothings to the not so sweet good-byes.

You can’t really reassess a novel like this but this is meant to be enjoyed not overanalyzed. I mean sure you can point out all the faults but then you’re taking away all the fun Lovestruck Summer has to offer. So I’m leaving it like it is.

And pssttt for $5.99 this book can be a steal

Overall: Nope you’re not getting thing anymore out of me!

Cover C+

Bad Apple

Bad Apple by Laura Ruby (October 1st 2009—Harper Teen)

Grade: 2.5 stars out of 5

Summary: “Junior Tola Riley doesn’t care what people say about her. She knows her ever-changing hair color and goth clothes make her an easy target. Whatever. But the latest rumor is different.... The entire school believes she had an affair with her art teacher. The rumors may be a lie, but the fallout is all too real. Will Tola finally stand up for the truth?”

Review: See this book can go either way with the readers, either you think it’s genius or you hate it—point blank. If you expect something really deep and emotional you probably won’t find it here. I mean you may be get it but the weirdness of this novel might overcome that emotion.

“Why do you smell like vanilla?”

“I like to rub Twinkies under my arms.”

“Isn’t that sticky?”

“A little. I’m going to try fudge next.”

“That could work.”

See my point? You have to wonder if that entire dialogue was meant to be funny and a joke or if the author really did mean it. I really hope she was kidding. That’s the main reason why I kind of liked this book—it was weird. Other than that nada.

We follow Tola as she faces the world from the gossiping lies. How different everyone treats her. How far her father became after her parents divorced and remarried. How her sister is pretty much a nut-case. How the only ones who really understand her is Mr. Meyer—the alleged teacher—and her grandfather—who’s stuck in a hospital most of the book.

It seemed like Tola was too childish—constantly trying to draw attention to herself—and never fighting her battles. I mean this whole thing involves you and yet you waste your time kidnapping pigs from the classroom? The least she could do was tell the whole story instead of just saying “nothing happened, nothing happened”. In the end it just makes you seem like a liar.

Then there was this whole thing with the ending. So someone gets a book deal. That’s it!? What about punishment, charges? So the main culprit of spreading the scandal gets away almost scot-free? What the hell!?

Overall: Would you call this humor necessary? Or was the author trying to divert your attention elsewhere. I think it would have been better if the story was less weirdness and more focused of the actual crime.

Cover B-

Waiting on Wednesday! (32)

Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead (May 18th 2010--Razorbill)

"Dimitri gave Rose the ultimate choice. But she chose wrong…

After a long and heartbreaking journey to Dimitri’s birthplace in Siberia, Rose Hathaway has finally returned to St. Vladimir’s—and to her best friend, Lissa. It is nearly graduation, and the girls can’t wait for their real lives beyond the Academy’s iron gates to begin. But Rose’s heart still aches for Dimitri, and she knows he’s out there, somewhere.

She failed to kill him when she had the chance. And now her worst fears are about to come true— Dimitri has tasted her blood, and now he is hunting her. Only this time, he won’t rest until Rose joins him…forever."

This requires no explanation...

The Tear Collector

The Tear Collector by Patrick Jones (September 1st 2009—Walker Books)

Grade: 2.5 stars out of 5

Summary: “Between hookups, makeups, and breakups, there isn’t a day at Lapeer High School without drama turning to trauma turning to tears.

And tears are just essential as air for Cassandra Grey. She and her family are vampires who thirst for human sorrow, and the energy that they soak in from a good crying jag can keep them fueled for days.

Anytime a friend needs a shoulder to cry on, Cass is there. Anytime a boyfriend gets too secure, she breaks his heart. Cass’s work as a school peer counselor and hospital volunteer also provides the perfect cover and access to her family’s energy source. But she is getting tired of all the lies and manipulation—especially now that she’s actually fallen in love with a human. Can she bear to betry her family for a chance at happiness and a life lived with joy?”

Review: I think there is a misconception for the Tear Collector. So far I’ve seen many call this book a new twist to an old vampire lore. “…she’s just like me now—not human, but not a classic horror movie vampire either. I’m more of a succubus that maintains a human form to get along in the world but is void of so much of what makes a person human—such as the ability to love.” This is where things throw me off track. I’m not sure if I can call this a vampire novel or not. There are certain attributes that make a vampire just as being able to transform into a wolf makes a werewolf. I’m grasping at thin straws right now; I guess it’s up to the reader to decide. Anyway that’s the least of my worries.

While I do think that The Tear Collector is unique within its idea and premise, the execution faltered. There seemed to be a lot of high school drama, redundant scenes, and many missing details.

I found the whole scenario of high school a bore actually. Jones starts a great idea then stops short from anything really excited. We have the generic mean girls, the popular but still nice cheerleader, the why-do-you-keep-mentioning-that-Cassandra-gives-blow-jobs-often-to jocks, the weird but deep Goth/Emo girl, and finally the not-the-best-looking-but-so-sweet guy. It’s a battle between which environment is dominate—high school or Cassandra’s family. There are times when they both intermingle but other times it’s more of a Monopoly game—pass Go and collect $200.

Cassandra hangs out in high school, comforts people, collects their tears, gives them to her great godmother, goes back to high school and collects tears again. This is where the redundancy comes into play. You can throw in random hissy cat fights but that doesn’t make it any better. I did, however, like the friendship with Samantha and Cassandra. We follow them when they were enemies to being something special. I thought her story was touching but had missing details to make it even more of a pow.

I couldn’t fully connect with many of the characters. I wasn’t as empathic to Cassandra as I would have liked, I didn’t like Scott as much as I hoped, and I couldn’t get the full intimate details of why they like each so darn much. I mean there were scenes that I thought “wow” but the conversations they had were very similar to other conversations she had.

Then there’s Alexei, her cousin whom she was promised to. A third of the novel was a build-up to this point and even then it fell short and anticlimactic. Again it showed promise, the chapter articles of children kidnappings, the suspense, and the anticipation but in the end all I could say was “that’s it”?

And the ending! Oh goodness. *no comment* I just wish we can get the inside scoop who her cousin killed….

Overall: It’s frustrating because it had so much potential not because it was horrid! I craved for something more.

Cover C+

Ehhhhhhhh

Winner Winner

The winner for my Maximum Ride prize pack promotion was #23...Lena! Lena I sent you an email so get back to me soon.

The Waking Blog Tour

Christopher Golden aka Thomas Randall has a story to tell all....

THE COLD OPEN

It was a dark and stormy night. The ultimate cliche but I must confess, I'm fond of it. Who doesn't love a story that begins on a dark and stormy night? Both as a reader and as a writer, I have a great deal of respect for an opening sentence or paragraph that can really grab hold and pull the reader in. So many things can be accomplished in just a few words, including the creation of mystery and suspense. The tone of an entire novel or story can be effectively communicated in a single sentence. Sometimes a writer can win me over for life with just that one sentence. Two-fisted thriller writer Greg Rucka began his first novel, KEEPER, with this little gem: "Much as I wanted to, I didn't break the guy's nose." There's a certain tired whimsy in there to go along with the toughness. Hard-boiled fiction writers can almost always be relied on for such openings, and I love them for it. Dennis Lehane, whose Kenzie & Gennaro novels are my favorite

modern hard-boiled detective novels, began his first, A DRINK BEFORE THE WAR, with this: "My earliest memories involve fire." Simple, yes, but the lines that follow weave together various images of riot and war as a the narrator--a firefighter's son--leads up to an ugly revelation. There's elegance there, and enough mystery to be intriguing.

In A TALE OF TWO CITIES, Charles Dickens begins with the famous "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times," but many forget that this is not the entirety of the first sentence. There's much more to the opening and while most of it is equally intriguing, it finishes rather flatly, with this: "the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only." Yeah. Snooze, right? But Dickens has already caught the reader with the opening and that is more than enough to propel us forward with interest and curiosity. We're off and running. Or reading. You know what I mean.

My all-time favorite opening, and one of the greatest in the history of literature, comes from Shirley Jackson's THE HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE.

"No live organism can continue for long to exist sanely under conditions of absolute reality; even larks and katydids are supposed, by some, to dream. Hill House, not sane, stood by itself against its hills, holding darkness within; it had stood so for eighty years and might stand for eighty more. Within, walls continued upright, bricks met neatly, floors were firm, and doors were sensibly shut; silence lay steadily against the wood and stone of Hill House, and whatever walked there, walked alone."

I could come up with thousands of intriguing first lines from classic novels and stories, from modern bestsellers, and from little-known favorites of mine. Even if you've never paid much attention to the cold open, you have probably been influenced by it frequently and may have favorites of your own. If you're the sort who picks up a book in the store and reads the first few lines in order to determine whether or not you're interested in buying, then the cold open has been hugely influential in determining what you read.

Truth be told, I'm not sure how much other writers think about this. I don't remember ever having the conversation with any of my writer friends. All I can say is that I think about it, sometimes too much. I can't really begin a novel until I feel like I've got an opening that propels ME forward. That doesn't necessarily mean that each novel's first line is a home run, but it's got to feel right to me and at least meet the number one criterion...it's got to propel you forward to the next line. If it's also mysterious or intriguing or unsettling, all the better. My first novel, OF SAINTS AND SHADOWS, began this way: "Manny Soares was getting just a little sick of pushing the damn broom." Not bad, I think. A little passive, but it sets the tone and the scene right off the bat, so I'm happy with it.

My first line from THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN is one of my favorites. "The world was still solid and reliable that chilly October morning, but it would not stay that way forever. Or even for long." Better yet, from WILDWOOD ROAD: "The night of the masquerade was a kind of mad, risque waltz, the voices louder and the laughter giddier than anyone would have expected. That was the nature of masks." Tim Lebbon and I co-wrote a novel called THE MAP OF MOMENTS. I love the cold open from that one. "In Max's dream, Gabrielle still loves him. And she is still alive."

Sometimes the simplest openings are the best, though. Abrupt and direct. Many of my teen novels start with lines meant to snap the reader to attention. BODY BAGS began with: "Amanda Green died for a cigarette." PROWLERS starts with "The taste of a child's blood." From THIEF OF HEARTS: "Murder itself held no pleasure for him. It was what came after--that was what he lived for." From POISON INK: "Pieces of her are broken."

They're not all so abrupt. Honestly, looking through the shelf of my books here in my office, some of them are not very good or very interesting. Sometimes I've begun with dialogue or setting, whatever felt right at the time. But other times I've managed, I think, to set up scene and character and give a good, intriguing cold open all at once. I'm fond of the longer opening to HEAD GAMES: "Not long after dawn, two days before Christmas, Jenna Blake stood over the shattered, nearly unrecognizable corpse of the mayor of Somerset, Massachusetts, and took deep breaths to keep from throwing up." Actually, that one's maybe a little funny, too, which is good. It's not Dickens or Shirley Jackson, but it makes me smile.

My latest novel is the first in a trilogy that I've written under the pseudonym Thomas Randall. [Thomas Randall is the name of the writer who is the protagonist in my novel STRANGEWOOD...the opening line of which is thoroughly unremarkable]. For the cold open of THE WAKING: DREAMS OF THE DEAD, I sat for a long time, as I often do, just waiting for the right line to occur to me. Often that's exactly what happens, the words just popping into my head. Perhaps echoes of BODY BAGS were drifting around my head, because the line follows a model set up there. DREAMS OF THE DEAD begins with....

"Akane Murakami died for a boy she did not love."

Whether that one works or not...I'll leave up to you. If it helps, though, the scene does take place on a dark and stormy night.

---

Except of his book

Monday, September 28th: Little Willow at Bildungsroman

http://slayground.livejournal.com/538197.html

http://slayground.livejournal.com

Tuesday, September 29th: Courtney Summers

http://courtneysummers.ca/2009/09/an-interview-with-thomas-randall/

http://www.courtneysummers.ca

Wednesday, September 30th: readergirlz

http://readergirlz.blogspot.com

Thursday, October 1st: lecitans

http://lectitans.livejournal.com/

Friday, October 2nd: Sarah's Random Musings

http://www.sarahbear9789.blogspot.com/

Friday, October 2nd: Steph Su Reads

http://stephsureads.blogspot.com

Monday, October 5th: Books By Their Cover

http://booksbytheircover.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, October 6th: Kim Baccellia

http://kbaccellia.livejournal.com/

Tuesday, October 6th: Book Chic

http://bookchicclub.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, October 7th: Presenting Lenore

http://presentinglenore.blogspot.com/

Thursday, October 8th: GalleySmith

http://www.galleysmith.com

Friday, October 9th: Just Blinded Book Reviews

http://justblindedbookreviews.blogspot.com

The full HTML code for the schedule with additional descriptions:

http://slayground.livejournal.com/538497.html

Huggles Part 2

If you guys remember my first HUGGLES giveaway then you would remember my promise of a second or part 2 version of it. Well here it is! This contest is not for my 400th 398th follower but rather my 1 (one!) year blogoversary! So up for grabs are...

The entire Mortal Instrument series!

1. City of Bones (paperback)
2. City of Ashes (paperback) [special thanks goes to Casey for kindly donating this book for the contest!]
3. City of Glass (arc)

Or if you happen to be into adult books...

The first 5 books in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series! Please note that my books aren't "new":

1. DARK LOVER
2. LOVER ETERNAL
3. LOVER AWAKENED
4. LOVER REVEALED
5. LOVER UNBOUND

This may come as a surprise to you but from now on I will be reviewing adult, classics, general fiction books. I am, however, still mainly focused on YA books.

So this contest is all about me branching out into another genre while still celebrating my first lovely [aside from all that stupid drama] year blogging.

---

To win:

To enter you must answer this question: If I were a ____ then I would ____.

i.e. If I were a tangerine then I would spend the entire day rolling around.

Leave me a way to contact you. Grrr. If not then you'll have 7 days to contact me once I announce the winners.

Extra entries:

+2 if you were a follower

+1 if you start following me

+2 if you blog about this contest (sidebars will only get you 1 extra entry)

+1 if you tweet about this contest

+1 if you managed to refer someone

+1 to the person whom you referred (they must state your alias or name)

if you do not have a blog then you may email 5 friends, CC me a copy, for 1 extra entry

PLEASE KEEP THIS IN ONE COMMENT. If you were to enter now and do an extra entry later on, then delete your first comment and recomment.

Other important facts:

I will throw in another book choice for every 25 unique entries. Note that the JR Ward books counts as one item. Same thing applies with the Mortal Instrument series.

The amount of winners will be determined by how much is in my wallet and the amount of entries I will get. As of right now there will be one winner. This winner can choose between either the Mortal Instrument books or the Black Dagger Brotherhood books. This may change. I hope to give both sets away and have another winner whom will choose from a book pile (that will be added for every 25 unique entries [see above]). Making this a 3 winners contest *crosses fingers for money*.

US only contest. HOWEVER I am willing to ship internationally if the winner helps pay for the S&H.

This contest will end on December 20th (marking my 1 year blogoversary) aka 78 days (see below on my little button).

Oh and bookmarks will come with the books! :D

More choices!

Pooped

Just got back from hanging out with Sharon and Steph Su. Was going to post this contest but as you can see by the title, I am utterly pooped. More on the adventures of today...later.

Hush, Hush

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick (October 13th 2009—Simon and Schuster)

Grade: 4 stars out of 5

Summary: “For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch came along. With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment.

But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure who to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel.

For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life.”

Review: So let’s talk about Twilight and Hush, Hush and how Fitzpatrick is glaringly obvious that she’s stealing Meyer’s work of art despite the fact Twilight has many similar traits in a majority of YA novels and vampire novels. [hint hint sarcasm] Key word is ‘vampire’ where Hush, Hush is obviously ‘fallen angel’. If that doesn’t clue you in then you obviously need to back away from the Twilight books and the sparkling vampires because in no way will you ever be Edward’s lover. Face it. It’s true.

So let’s talk about Edward and Patch. Patch is the dark, edgy, sexy version of Edward. I guess you can say he’s wilder. That being said the entire novel is a darker theme. The term fallen angel can be accounted for this. Like Adam and Eve, Patch took the forbidden fruit. Whether he succeeded or failed it doesn’t matter, in this one act his wings were ripped. In order to finally get what he has always wished for, Nora is the one person who can help him.

Hush, Hush was addicting. It was a novel that demanded to be inhaled in one sitting alone. The characters come off the pages like a black and white movie and a splash red lipstick or blood for dramatic effect. The rippling cause and effect with a dastardly villain in a pair of killer pumps shoots fire throughout the novel—both literally and figuratively. Sometimes it just too much though. Like a one noted melody.

Together [Nora and Patch]we can only hope that the sequel will bring us more giggles, swooning, and the constant ‘omg omg omg squeal!’

Overall: In order to possess a copy of this book I had willingly sold my kidney, liver, and spleen. Do I regret this decision? Absolutely not.

Cover A-

I love the concept behind this cover. I love the color scheme. The darkness. I just wish the model shaved his armpits (my personal preference) though.

P.S. The name was hard to get into for a while. All I could think about was Patches from Powerpuff Girls

Last Chance!

Tomorrow or was it tonight is your last shot to win all the books in the Max Ride series!

Cashing In

Cashing In by Susan Colebank (November 12th 2009—Dutton)

Grade: 2.5 stars out of 5

Summary: “There are some problems even winning the lottery can’t fix.

With as many hours as Reggie Shaw puts in at the Cashmart, it’s no wonder that her grades and her friendships are slipping. Worst of all, Reggie’s mother’s inability to keep a job means that Reggie is pulling the weight of two people. Then, Reggie’s mom wins big in the lottery. Suddenly the money—and the popularity—comes pouring in. But when Reggie finds out that her mother has been borrowing more money than she actually won, she must face up to the fact that happiness can’t be bought—it only comes with hard work.”

Review:

WARNING: THIS REVIEW IS LONG. I've decided to make a short review followed by the longer review if you want details.

SHORT REVIEW:

Okay so recap: Some parts were good, others weren’t. I needed less chit-chat, droning, and more character building, further details with Gabe, and some much needed karma. I did love: The friends, the step-dad, the climax—confrontations, the tears, the “‘You’ve screwed up, Mom. Don’t screw us up, too’”—and finally I loved Simon the rat*.

LONG REVIEW:

Cashing In’s synopsis sounded promising—intriguing, fun, and a dream come true. But when you combine a main character that I didn’t care much for, a cousin who I wished I had a shotgun for, and a relationship (with flannel mind you…attached to a guy though) that sort of never jump started I can understand where that excitement of the book drained away.

Regina Shaw had the perfect background for me to be sympathetic with—a father who just recently passed away, a mother who’s addicted to gambling and eBay, a brother who’s hardly ever there anymore—but her personality stole some it. I wished she would have just stepped up for herself. When your younger-than-you cousin blackmails you to do her bidding I can kind of let that slide. But when you let her “borrow” the necklace that your dad gave you—your one of only memento—I’m slightly peeved. That and when you’re practically spending more money than the actual blackmailing money she has on you, it’s odd. Besides what happens if she told? What proof does she have? A photo of the money that you stole? You can easily say that you took it from the ATM. Or was there something more to it that the author didn’t mention? Maybe it was just the main character’s personality—never lie. But then she’s been “lying” all this time when she stole the money. It’s just so frustrating to me when you’re constantly looking over your shoulder and in fear of your cousin. I also didn’t get much of grieving part of the father. It seemed to me that the entire family was more concerned with the money than the death.

Let’s talk about the cousin now. She doesn’t play a large role in the book but I really just wanted to take a shotgun and blow her brain. Okay maybe not that extreme, a slap or two perhaps? Her entire family just ARGH me. Aunt Barb is a cross between a cousin you’ve never heard of but pops up when you win the lottery and a sister who only talks to you when you have something she wants, something to gloat she wants to gloat to with, or just to degrade you. When you have the $$ then we can talk.

I would like to mention, though, that Reggie’s friends are pretty much awesome. Pete is a Star Wars fanatic, the other is a pie queen. And the best part is? They hooked up. We read about them for only a few pages but they were great pages. After the “incident” with Sarah (pie queen) and she broke her arm and received a concussion, Pete was there as soon as she woke up. Despite the fact that they were in the “off-stage” on their on-and-off relationship, Pete became a man and took care of Sarah. I pretty much went awhhhhhhh.

Speaking of relationships the thing with Gabe and Reggie was almost there but not quite. The building part was hardly there. I mean some secret glances, a few talks, a bump in the donut shop hardly constitutes as a “get to know the person before you date them” experience. For all she knew, he could have been a serial killer out shopping for little girls while working at the Say Cheese! Photo department (highly unlikely but it can happen). The hookups after that were more of the side effects from Reggie’s mom and the taunts from school. The “I love you”s I deemed as awkward on my end. The author lets us know that they’ve been going out for several months—6 or more—but as the reader, it’s been only like 2 chapters altogether. It wasn’t enough for me to be convinced of this relationship.

Okay so enough about the things that made me sad about the book, onto happy thoughts. We need happy thoughts. So while Reggie takes a whole lot of crap for the first 2/3 of the book, she ends up being strong at the end. The last couple chapters for me, I found myself loving it. I was just waiting for the emotional outbreak that made me feel something! And boy did I get it. We had several confrontations in regards with Sarah’s family, Reggie’s mom, Bridget (that little evil cousin) all ending with an epilogue that made sense. The majority of the pieces came together and we finished it with a pretty red bow.

Overall: I think this is hit or miss book depending on the reader. If you can get past the characters you will perhaps love the book. Sadly, I could only tolerate Reggie.

Cover A-

Um I seem to have this thing where I love covers but didn’t like the book. I adore the dress, handbag, and shoes. I think the pigeon-toed look works because it shows a sense of a missing emotional clarity. Reggie perpetually struggles with herself and the body language shows this. The shoes are so cute (I would never wear it though) and the handbag of course has to match the shoes. I think having the title sideways and toward the edge was a risky move that surprisingly looks good. Orange? Wow but it pops out to you.

*Simon the rat was client at the Say Cheese! Photo department.

Karma For Beginners

Karma for Beginners by Jessica Blank (August 18th 2009—Hyperion)

Grade: 2.7 stars out of 5

Summary: “Fourteen-year-old Tessa has never had a normal life. Her mother, a frustrated hippie with awful taste in men, has seen to that. But when her mom pulls her out of school to live at an ashram in the Catskills, Tessa goes from being a freak among normal people to being an outcast among freaks. Freaks who worship an orange robe-wearing guru. And while her mom is buzzing with spiritual energy, and finding a little too much favor with the guru, all Tessa feels are weird vibes.

Unless she's with Colin, the gorgeous boy who fixes trucks for the ashram. The connection they share is the most spiritual thing Tessa has ever felt. But he's older-like illegally older-and Tessa's taking dangerous risks to spend time with him. Soon her life is blooming into a psychedelic web of secrets and lies and it's clear that something's about to give way. When it does, will she have anyone to hold on to? Will she even know herself?”

Review: There is an abundance of drugs (pot, LSD) and sex in this book so while it involves a 14 turned 15 girl, I would suggest being careful of who’s picking this up.

In the beginning I was quite reluctant and a bit turned off by the ways the characters explored sexuality (spoiler: your 20 some year old boyfriend’s creepy, really creepy, friends and an orange) but someone mentioned that it wasn’t set in the modern time so I let it slide to some extent. I never really delved into those times so I wasn’t exactly sure what is acceptable and what isn’t. Yeah it was odd but it would have been all the rage back then. Anyway moving on….

I thought Tessa was a fairly relatable character. Here she is in this crazy cult like home and the only thing remotely sane is Colin, not to mention he’s not too bad to look at. I understand her way of thinking, her decisions (well not all) and the feeling to just escape.

Colin was someone I found pleasing…at first. He was emphatic with Tessa—understanding her—and quick to give a hug when needed, and doesn’t try to force something. But he increasingly became this “I am man” attitude and developed this jealous presence that was neither sweet nor protective. He practically threw her away. But again we come back to the drugs. They were high, maybe disoriented. I’m not quite sure. I would have liked to see more of the aftermath. The beginning was great, good build-up, transactions from friends to something more but after the incident I just wonder what next.

The relationship between the mother and Tessa was a fragile give and take. It seemed that the mother was the one that needed more caring, more reassurance, more time and patience. We explore the affects of a young pregnancy when the mother has had barely any time to grow up herself. I think that was this relationship showed us.

One other thing that I liked to point out that Karma For Beginners had this sense similar to Candor. Where everyone just listens to this one main leader. Your expression to think, to explore, is an invalid now. Your opinion is condemned. Your self-judgment is considered acting out. This is where you walk along the lines of being a cult. But aside from Candor, this leader is really, really creepy

The ending however was very disappointing—very abrupt. It was a quick “what do you want” question from the mother with Tessa responding and acting on command. The climax of the ending lasted for a about a paragraph to which we turn to the next page—blank. It ended. I love the concept of the idea—the final letter, the speak and I will listen attitude—but it was too fast, too quick for me to truly appreciate it. Even so it was upsetting how quickly Tessa’s mother just accepted what she had to say. It really was way too short. This is when the ending just breaks the greatest of a novel.

Overall: Started out rocky, turn into something I enjoyed a lot, but ended so abrupt that I was left frustrated.

Cover B

Waiting on Wednesday! (31)

Fierce Style: How to Be Your Most Fabulous Self by Christian Siriano (October 5th 2009)

"In 2008, Christian Siriano made headlines as the youngest designer to win the hit reality series Project Runway. But the now twenty-three-year-old is bigger than a TV celebrity. From his prodigious fashion talent to his one-of-a-kind personality, Christian is the embodiment of fierce style.

Now in his first book, he helps readers discover how to look, feel, and act fierce in everyday life. With tips from some of fashion and Hollywood's biggest names -including Victoria Beckham, Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, and Vanessa Williams -- along with gorgeous original sketches by Christian, never-before-heard stories, and behind-the-scenes photos, he tells his journey of developing his own fashion sense and overcoming obstacles to success.

Giving advice on creating personal style, sharing tips on building self-confidence, and revealing his own list of fashion dos and don'ts, Christian shows how to use one's unique strengths to get ahead - and go from tickity-tack to totally flawless."

Eeeeeeeeeeee!!

It's back up!

My review for Darklight is back up :D

Darklight

Darklight by Lesley Livingston (December 22nd 2009—Harper Teen)

Grade: 4 stars out of 5

Summary: “Much has changed since autumn, when Kelley Winslow learned she was Faerie royalty, fell in love with changeling guard Sonny Flannery, and saved New York City from a rampaging Faerie war band. When a terrifying encounter in Central Park sends Kelley tumbling into the Otherworld, her reunion with Sonny is joyful—but cut short. For they’ve been plunged into a game of Faerie deception and wavering allegiances in which the next move could topple a kingdom...or part them forever.”

Review: Fans of Wondrous Strange rejoice! Lesley Livingston is back and she’s better than ever. Darklight evokes the same light fluidity with the heavy faerie battles and somehow still managing to find time to make the crowd swoon over Kelley and Sonny. She incorporates Shakespeare, theater, and faerie history in this action packed novel.

If you have yet to read Wondrous Strange, do not attempt to pick this book up. If you have read Wondrous Strange, brush up with it again. There’s a lot of dialogue and plots that require good memory.

One of the few doubts I had about Wondrous Strange was the unoriginal plotline. It seemed as though all fae books are the same. There was like this “How to Write a YA Book with Faeries for Dummies” manual that have been seemingly read by many. Step by step process, plotlines all going down the same pathway. But I’m happy to say that Darklight managed to surprise by throwing me off that loop. Seven words: Sonny plus giant surge of greenness equals awesomeness. Fabulous twist.

Sonny and Kelsey are still sweeter than ever. Especially the part where Sonny threatens to burn down an entire theater filled with raging leprechauns. That is what I called revenge. Nothing speaks love like green ooze.

With a few surprise up her sleeve, Livingston captivated me by the detailed descriptions; sometimes throwing me off by the overly detailed descriptions. It engulfed plotlines at times. It does, however, make an expressive battle scene.

There were times where we could have gotten more details on though. For instance Fenn—AWOL, poof, What’s the dealio? The summer court? Questions, questions, questions. Then of course Aberon but that I’m leaving up to the 3rd installment of Wondrous Strange.

Overall: An impressive sequel. It’s hard for a book to be better than it’s processor but by golly I think she’s got it.

Cover B+

Craptastic

!@#@$#%$ Dammit. Google reader uploaded my review for Darklight. It's gonna go back tomorrow at 11 so can you guys leave the comment until then? I would really appreciate it.

Monday Mystery: Lara Zielin

1. Which flavor of a donut do you like best? Which donut shop to you get your donuts from? What is one flavor that must be made possible!

It’s a little lame of me, but I’m a powdered-sugar donut kind of girl. I just never met one I didn’t love. But, don’t get me wrong. I’ll chow down on a cruller, a chocolate glazed, a crème-filled … just about any donut, anywhere, anytime.

Recently, I have started buying my donuts at Dunkin’ Donuts, but I like to buy local so I think I’ll start sniffing around for the best mom and pop donut shop in my hood. If a donut shop near where I lived could make a chocolate and peanut butter donut, I would crumple to the floor in a happy faint. I might never stop eating them. Om nom nom.

2. Can you squeeze yourself into a cabinet when playing hide-and-seek? Name your best hiding spot? Behind your hands?

Please. I just wrote a book about donuts. I’m not squeezing myself into much of anything these days.

My best hiding spot as a kid was in a bathroom closet at the end of a long hall. The closet was huge and I could ball up in the bottom of it with some towels in front of me. No one ever knew I was there. Lara: 1; Searchers: 0.

3. When playing jump rope with someone else, have you ever considered "accidentally" tripping them with the rope during a mid-jump?

Uh, yeah. Totally. Because grade school? Can be brutal. Brutal, I tell you. Sometimes the only way you get back at someone for blabbing to Justin Bernacke that you have a crush on him is to trip them with the jump rope at recess. Also, it makes it look like an accident, which saves you from having to go to the principal’s office. This is all hypothetical off course. *coughs*

4. Ever had taco flavored Doritos? Would you like some?

Okay, I’m gaining weight just reading these questions. First donuts, now Doritos. But yeah, I want some. Is the Pope Catholic? Much like the powdered-sugar donuts, I never met a chip I didn’t love. Except maybe salt and vinegar chips. There’s something about the vinegar that doesn’t sit with me. Maybe I just haven’t spent enough time in England eating them with some fish.

5. If an acquaintance hands you a questionable brown piece of candy and calls it chocolate, would you do any of the following:

a) sniff it

b)bring it to your mouth, pretend to put in your mouth with your entire palm covering said mouth, then pretend to chew very loudly while the "candy" is still in your hand

c) say thank you and that you'll eat it later so it won't ruin your appetite

d) accidentally throwing it at her/his face saying that there was a bee near him/her and had reacted so swiftly that the candy flew out of your hand

e) claim that you're allergic to anything with sugar

f) no response then fake faint/dizziness

Okay, this interview is officially making me fat. But I would do C. Because I’m a Midwesterner and we’re very polite. We don’t like to tell someone that their questionable candy looks disgusting and we’d rather lick the bottom of our mousepad. No, we simply accept the candy, smile graciously, and say that we can’t wait to eat it later. And then we throw it in the trash. But no feelings were hurt! This is important. (Also, I’d like to say for the record that I love option D, but I’m not that quick on my feet.)

6. If you had to live in a room with dolls, which doll would you pick? Barbie? My Little Pony? G.I. Joe?

Do I really have to live in a room with dolls? Is this my only option? Because a room full of dolls does not a good night’s sleep make. I’m just saying.

But okay, I would pick all the above. In the interests of giving them all more diverse life experiences, I’d make G.I. Joe ride My Little Pony to the Dream House. Barbie wouldn’t be there because she’d be with Snake Eyes fighting some epic military battle (turns out she’s really good at languages and she’s serving as a critical interpreter). Then, maybe just for kicks, I’d get Rainbow Bright in there and make Barbie give her a makeover because those rainbow tights and that stringy yarn hair are SO not flattering.

7. Little blue truck. Assess this.

It’s owned by the reclusive and not-oft-mentioned Garbage Smurf, who is always trying to get Smurfette to go out with him, but she consistently refuses because he smells like damp pretzels.

8. Type all the emoticons you know of.

Rather, if I may, I’d like to type the best icon in the whole world. My husband and I created it when we were dating. Are you ready? World, I give you …. PIRATE KITTY!

P-{

Yar. Mew.

9. :D :) :/ :l :( D: >:( o_o o_O O_O x.x

This is a sneak preview of a review I'm planning to do, can you describe my though process?

Clearly you had great hopes for this book. As you delved deeper into it, it began to disappoint. It only got worse. It shocked you with its high, high level of crapitude. Eventually, you died a little inside – a small corner of your heart actually began to decompose and rot – because it was so terrible. To this, I say I’m sorry.

10. Boxers or briefs?

Uuuuh. Um. Well, I’m not … I mean, I don’t. Er. Hey look over there! It’s my new website!

Me Plus School

I've been writing too many essays lately (with one due this Monday, one on Tuesday, another on Friday, and another 6 page essay due in 2 some weeks with a sprinkle of quizzes and tests) so when my art teacher assigned us a homework to collage whatever we wanted I took my chance.

The bottom one was a first attempt where each I wanted to do something fun. The grass was "the Hulk" (I got really tired mid-way as you can see) and the desert sands was the insides of a Snickers bar. So when I asked for my friend's opinion of how it was so far she mentioned that it was a bit empty (from what I managed to do). I had to agree with her but once I got home I realized I loved the orange too much to cover it thus I made the second collage (top one).

This one I'm not that fond of....I don't know, it just seems so blah to me. It took a good 3 solid hours to finish. I'm hoping to love it by the time I turn it in but so far it's just an okay to me.

Anyway I would just like to mention to never ever ask me for directions ever. I managed to get myself semi-lost getting out of the subway station. Then I lost my way to Borders for their 3-for-2 sale where I made a right turn, a right turn, and a right turn. You know what you get when you make 3 right turns? A left turn. Yeah. Yan+directions=stupid. This reminds me of Zoolander where Derek could only make left turns lol

Anyway off to do more writing! (This is why I dislike writing reviews now)

P.S. I'm not a huge fan of music by the way xP

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

My comment contest ended last night and this morning I spent about 1-2 hours passing around the extra entries but anyhow, the winner is...

(: Isa :)

So Isa I'll probably contact you within a week but if you see this you can just email me your mailing address and which ARC you wanted: Candor OR Give up the Ghost.

Help!

"SAVE SHRINKING VIOLET!

Help Tere keep her voice!

Shrinking Violet is about an extremely shy high school senior trying to find her voice and reach her dream of becoming a DJ, despite the obstacles that stand in her way.

The book is about to go on back order and in order for more copies to be printed, more people have to place orders for the book.

Read more about Shrinking Violet:

High school senior Teresa Adams is so painfully shy that she dreads speaking to anyone in the hallways or getting called on in class. But in the privacy of her bedroom with her iPod in hand, she rocks out doing mock broadcasts for Miami's hottest FM radio station, which happens to be owned by her stepfather. When a slot opens up at The SLAM, Tere surprises herself by blossoming behind the mike into confident, sexy Sweet T to everyone's shock, she's a hit! Even Gavin, the only guy in school who she dares to talk to, raves about the mysterious DJ's awesome taste in music. But when The SLAM announces asongwriting contest, and a prom date with Sweet T is the grand prize, Sweet T's dream could turn into Tere's worst nightmare. . . .

Praise for Shrinking Violet:

• "Bella, eat your heart out. Tere is the girl every young woman truly wants to be. . . . Brilliant work, Danielle Joseph." -Ellen Hopkins, New York Times bestselling author of Identical
• "Danielle Joseph takes readers into the glamorous world of Top 40 radio, with a character who is both funny and relatable. Readers will cheer when Tere finds her voice!" -Alex Flinn, author of BreathingUnderwater and A Kiss in Time
• "A funny, romantic, and truly inspirational Cinderella tale for any teen who's ever been shy, loved music, or dreamed of going to the ball. Wait, that's pretty much everybody." -Gaby Triana, author of The Temptress Four

So here's how you can help:

Please tell anyone that you think might be interested to place an order now before it's too late. Guys, girls, grandmas. grandpas, you're never too old to read humorous teen fiction!

http://www.amazon. com/Shrinking- Violet-Danielle- Joseph/dp/ 1416596968/ ref=ed_oe_ p

http://www.indiebou nd.org/book/ 9781416596967

I'm also running a contest for those that want to have some fun! There will be four winners, each receiving a $25 gift certificate to iTunes or the bookstore of their choice.

So how can you win?

1. Post a review of Shrinking Violet on Amazon.com or B &N.com 2 points

2 Blog, Tweet or Facebook about the Save Shrinking Violet Campaign 1 point for each mention

3. Take a picture of yourself wearing a sweater and mimicking the book's cover (you must have the book in the photo too). 2 points

Contest begins at 11pm on Thursday, September 24, 2009 and ends at 11pm on Thurday, October 15, 2009.

After you enter, you can either email me at danielle@daniellejo seph.com or leave me a comment on my blog at http://daniellejose ph.livejournal. com/ under the entry, Save Shrinking Violet!

Much love,

Danielle Joseph"

Last Chance

Today is the last Saturday for the month! So it's all or nothing now for my contest!

Snag your extra 10 if you comment on Megan Crewe's guest post! If you commented before the 26th then you can get an extra 15!

Blue Moon

Blue Moon by Alyson Noel (July 7th 2009—St. Martin’s Griffin)

Grade: 2.5 stars out of 5

Summary: “Just as Ever is learning everything she can about her new abilities as an immortal, initiated into the dark, seductive world by her beloved Damen, something terrible is happening to him. As Ever’s powers are increasing, Damen’s are fading—stricken by a mysterious illness that threatens his memory, his identity, his life.

Desperate to save him, Ever travels to the mystical dimension of Summerland, uncovering not only the secrets of Damen’s past—the brutal, tortured history he hoped to keep hidden—but also an ancient text revealing the workings of time. With the approaching blue moon heralding her only window for travel, Ever is forced to decide between turning back the clock and saving her family from the accident that claimed them—or staying in the present and saving Damen, who grows weaker each day...”

Review: THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS!

There was something grating about Blue Moon that left me wanting to shove it back into the depths of my bookcase—out of sight, out of mind.

Blue Moon took on something that ever bad Twilight fanfiction attributes—making the lead male character human. I mean I can overlook that fact since it’s not one of those moments where it makes everything good. In fact, it makes a whole lot of bad, no-nos and a lot of trouble. No, what made me dislike this book was because of Ever Bloom.

Ever had this semi-whiny attitude that grated on my nerves. I can’t explain it in so many words but the fact of the matter is she takes so much crap from other people, her common sense is somehow obliterated, her overly emotionally dependence on Damen (like she just can’t survive one millisecond if he’s upset with her) is just a ticking time bomb for me.

There were some lingering questions in my mind after I finished Blue Moon. Although Ever was able to sense that Roman was bad, did she not sense that Ava knew him? Was there a passing thought in her mind that might have let Ever know this little fact. And could she not sense this? So despite the fact that Ava had a clean aura that allowed her to see the temples in Summerland (I’m assuming that she could see it) does this imply that her thoughts were good. Maybe I’m just over complicating things or something.

And there was this whole thing with the ending. Ever’s common sense flew out the window. So basically there’s this guy who completely ruined your life, almost killed your soul mate, turned the school’s hierarchy no more (which is just plain bizarre in the pyramid disappears) and in the last minute you take his word over these two twins who have only helped you!? Even though they can pretty much give you evidence as to why you should you trust them, you turn your back to them because they spoke in this mystery codes when you wanted direct answers. And here’s the thing that really just grated me, Ever trusted the evil guy! I’m just like—what the hell!? Are you f***ing stupid!? So yeah I do think you deserve what you got.

So now that’s off my chest let’s talk things that made sense and things that made me happy. I love the idea of Summerland, the concept, the execution. It’s the ability to think and create, to loose yourself in people or in mother nature. Summerland gives you a choice.

I enjoyed Damen’s character. He wasn’t the perfect person, that’s what made him so much better—depth, dimension, and drive was all there. What I found the most comforting was the fact that he can screw up, move on, and not pretend that the past didn’t happen—as much as what Ever hopes for.

I love the combination of alchemy, astrology, magic, fantasy all rolled into one novel. It fused together so many elements that made it work.

Overall: I can’t believe it but I’m probably end up reading the 3rd installment in this series. I mean I think my friend might love it should I ever want to toss it away.

Cover B-

Somehow I think the covers for Blue Moon and Summerland should switch.

A Pearl Among Princes

A Pearl Among Princes by Coleen Paratore (September 17th 2009—Dial)

Grade: 3 stars out of 5

Summary: “Welcome to the island where princes learn to be charming.

Gracepearl Coal is the cook’s daughter on Miramore, the island all princes visit for their summer program in the Charming Arts. Each year, the princes-in-training arrive on gallant seacraft, guided by captains trained to navigate the island’s treacherous waters. Passage on one of these boats is the only method to leave the island—thus betrothal to a royal is the only way for Pearl to find her far-off destiny, the one that’s started haunting her dreams. Luckily, this year’s crop of princes include some promising prospects, but how will Pearl leave behind her ailing father or—hardest of all—marry a boy other than her long-time beloved, Mackree . . . who now finds it too painful to even speak to her?”

Review: At first I was going to mention how it really didn’t seem to be a teen book but then I saw the age group for the book—8-12—and it made sense. It seemed more tween than teen.

This is all Disney. With the adorable rhymes, childhood lullabies, and a room full of dashing princes, this is pretty much a dream come true. There is no real villain in this book but one with many heroes.

There are two main princes to pick from, Sir Richard and Sir Peter. Richard is the blond and kind, and Peter is the charming pirate with his silver hoop and long hair. We follow Gracepearl (I really do not like that name) as she decides which one will take her away from Miramore and to her potential. But then there’s Mackree who she has fallen in love with for many years. In an ongoing struggle between her future and her love, we follow Grace accomplishes her daily chores while primping for the ball.

I say again that this is for an audience that loves Disney. It’s melodramatic, cute humor, and I expect the turtles/fishes to sing while Grace goes by the ocean shore. Everything falls into place just like a movie from the beginning to the happily ever after. There isn’t much to say about this story. It was short, sweet, and child-like.

Overall: Disney.

Cover B+

Q&A With Malinda Lo

Welcome to the last stop for Malinda Lo's ASH Tour!

I've reviewed ASH here. The playlist for ASH. FAQ about ASH. An article about why she wrote about LGBT characters in YA fiction. Her column about my own coming-out story. I was also sent a 3 chapter excerpt of ASH but wasn't sure if I could post it or even how so I bring you a link to the first chapter only. Sorry!

---

There is a section in your book where we follow Ash as she rides a horse. Have you have even ridden a horse? Do you own one? Would you like to? Which method of riding do you think is easiest (side saddle, uh the other saddle etc.). Were you ever one of those little girls who always wished for a pony?

I have ridden a horse, but not since I was a child. I do not own one, although I absolutely have had fantasies of living on a ranch and having lots of horses and wearing cowboy boots. OK, I have western fantasies, so obviously I would ride western, but I do not deny the allure of English riding, particularly the fashion. Yes, I really like boots.

I was a little girl I did not want a pony — I wanted one of the grand big horses in The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley. But even I knew there was no way one of those could live in my back yard. Bummer!

Why were you inspired by Cinderella and not the various other fairy tales such as Sleeping Beauty or Snow White?

I guess I just identified with the fact that Cinderella worked really hard and was ultimately rewarded for it. Sleeping Beauty and Snow White both involve girls who fall asleep and are rescued by a prince. I did not want to fall asleep and wait for anyone to rescue me. That seemed kind of boring.

Do you have any future involving Ash or Sidhean? (I phrased the question wrong x.x)

If you mean is there a future for Ash and Sidhean together, the answer is, I’m afraid, no. Ash has her own future, and Sidhean has his, but their lives are meant to go in different directions.

---

and as a special gift for being the last stop of Malinda Lo's blog tour I bring you:

The Everafter

The Everafter by Amy Huntley (September 29th 2009—Balzer & Bay)

Grade: 4 stars out of 5

Summary: “Madison Stanton doesn't know where she is or how she got there. But she does know this--she is dead. And alone, in a vast, dark space. The only company she has in this place are luminescent objects that turn out to be all the things Maddy lost while she was alive. And soon she discovers that with these artifacts, she can re-experience--and sometimes even change--moments from her life: Her first kiss. A trip to Disney World. Her sister's wedding. A disastrous sleepover.”

Review: The Everafter was a pleasant surprise. I seem to gravitate towards the book even after I finished.

The Everafter talks of the afterlife (hence the title) and what to expect. Despite the philosophical upbringings the book still manages to have the hidden sparkle of sweet, sad, and sultry. We follow Madison as journeys back to her life from age 4 to the infantile stage of goo-goo ga-ga to her last moments on earth.

We watch the progression of the relationship with her older sister. This is something all too knowing for me. At the age of 7 I was already threatening to chop my brother to pieces with me glaring at him at the couch, butcher knife in hand (no comment). But just like Madison whom at her later teens the relationship with her sister becomes gentler, I admit that my brother watches out for me. We argue less, fight (I really do mean like with pouches) less, and become better siblings.

Then we follow Maddy and Gabe as they fall in love. There seems to be more scenes of these two than most. Tender, sweet, and still managing to never overstep the boundary of being just too much.

The ending was weird for me though. I mean yes, I thought it was shocking, but it was this overly dramatic death that left me doubting if something like this can truly happen. The epilogue was a very nice touch though. One that answered a very important question: Boy or girl?

Like many others, the first person point of view is very unreliable as many questions are left unanswered. For example, who was the one that mangled Maddy’s cat? And who ratted Tammy out?

Overall: The Everafter was packed full of humor, anguish, and surprise.

Cover B-

Well I do love the idea I really don’t see the relation from the novel to it.

EDIT: Really? That's an orchid? Wow that totally flew over my head.

Waiting on Wednesday! (30)

Split by Swati Avasthi (March 9th 2010--Knopf)

"Sixteen-Year-Old Jace Witherspoon arrives at the doorstep of his estranged brother Christian with a re-landscaped face (courtesy of his father’s fist), $3.84, and a secret.

He tries to move on, going for new friends, a new school, and a new job, but all his changes can’t make him forget what he left behind—his mother, who is still trapped with his dad, and his ex-girlfriend, who is keeping his secret.

At least so far.

Worst of all, Jace realizes that if he really wants to move forward, he may first have to do what scares him most: He may have to go back. First-time novelist Swati Avasthi has created a riveting and remarkably nuanced portrait of what happens after. After you’ve said enough, after you’ve run, after you’ve made the split—how do you begin to live again? Readers won’t be able to put this intense page-turner down."

Once A Witch

Once a Witch by Carolyn MacCullough (September 14th 2009—Clarion)

Grade: 4 stars out of 5

Summary: “Seventeen-year-old Tamsin Greene is the only non-magical member in a large coven of witches. Her mother can move at lightning speed. Her father can control the weather, and her sister can spin words into phrases so powerfully persuasive people are compelled to do as she wishes. As outcast in her own family, Tamsin spends most of her time at boarding school in New York City, as far from the world of witches as she can get.

But it isn’t far enough. When she agrees to help a handsome strange find a lost heirloom, the search quickly turns ominous—magically so. Soon, Tamsin is caught up in a centuries-old-conflict between her family and another, much sinister clan.

Can an ordinary teenage girl with no magical talent save her family of witches from powerful forces allied against them?”

Review: I wasn’t sure what I was expecting when Once a Witch landed in my hands. Did I think of bubbling cauldrons? Giant nose warts? Maybe….

Once a Witch was a magically delicious blend of romance, suspense, and fantasy. I practically gobbled this entire up in less than one sitting. That’s right, less than one. The book had to pried from my hands (with of course me leaving them a few bitemarks).

I’m a sucker for a love story, I admit it. So when you shove me a book about childhood love and cults I’m game. I love the relationship between Tasmin and Gabriel. More of a deep friendship than kissy kissy face, I found their bantering cute, their ease they have together charming, and the way they lean on one another without a pissy contest sweet.

The action was exhilarating as we raced through New York City to defeat a Knight from taking over the world! Okay this review sucks. I have no words. I can pretty much continue on with very vague details about how good this book was or I shall cut to the point and say: Read it. It’s very, very, very good. It’s fast, short, and you will demand more. A perfect set up to a sequel.

Overall: Read the bold print. Pick this book up!

Cover A-

I believe that this is a drawing (don’t quote me on this). Anyway I love the vibrancy of the colors and the details.